Like spring, Central Oregon allergy season hits early

Have you been feeling itchy eyes, a congested head and runny nose in recent weeks? That’s because spring allergies on the High Desert are early. Six weeks early.

An allergist at Bend Memorial Clinic, Dr. Adam Williams, believes this year has the highest pollen levels he’s seen in seven years.

Central Oregon is known for its vast amount of juniper trees. Maybe you’ve heard this before, becoming allergic to juniper after living in Central Oregon for a few years.

According to Dr. Williams, “No one is born allergic to anything. So whenever people develop allergies, it’s a switch that goes off in their body that causes them to be allergic.”

He predicts the rest of the seasons will follow suit and be earlier than normal, which is good news for juniper sufferers because juniper season will be over within the month. Next up is deciduous tree and grass pollen season.

Dr. Williams suggests going to the drug store and buying three items if symptoms get unbearable. an anti-inflammatory nasal spray, a daily antihistamine, and a daily allergy eye drop. All of these products are now offered over the counter.